This year’s theme is The Tale of Misrule and the Holly King.

The Lord of Misrule invites you back to his festivities as his esteemed party guests at Hardwick. Along your journey through the gardens and hall, expect to hear stories of Wintertide past through the Tale of Misrule and the Holly King. A time when the mischievous Lord of Misrule chose not to adhere to tradition and favoured himself & playfully preparing for his party, over taking care of the annual offerings to the Holly King and winter spirits.

As you step into the hall this Wintertide all is not what it seems, the house has been turned upside down as the natural world runs riot. Will the Lord of Misrule make merry with the Holly King and help un-muddle Hardwick before it’s too late? Find out on your next visit to Hardwick Wintertide.

Dates: 17th November - 4th January 2026
Time: Hardwick Hall opening times
Location: Hardwick Hall, Doe Lea, S44 5QJ
Costs: Adults £23.10 | Child £11.60 | Family £57.80

Find out more here

Additional information for planning your visit over Christmas. The hall can be quite busy at the opening times at the start of the day, this is 11am on standard opening days and 12.30pm on late night opening days. The museum rooms and the middle floor will be closed during this time for conservation cleaning. The processional route will be dressed for Wintertide, and some collection items may be obscured. Please note that last entry to the Hall is at 14.15 on standard opening days, and 19:15 on evening opening days. The Old Hall will be closed until Spring 2026.